SJK (T) Perai students immersing themselves in STEM-oriented activities during the programme. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
DEEPAVALI may be over, but its message of light, knowledge and new beginnings shone brightly at Tech Dome Penang as over 80 pupils from two Tamil primary schools took part in the centre’s “Festive with STEM Deepavali” programme.
Held annually, the initiative blends cultural celebrations with scientific learning and aims to introduce children to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through traditional themes.
This year’s programme featured a Rangoli design competition and a workshop that explored the concepts of symmetry, geometry and patterns in Deepavali motifs.
Pupils from SJK (T) Mak Mandin and SJK (T) Perai had the chance to participate in hands-on science activities, thanks to a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative by electronics manufacturer Flex.
Tech Dome Penang chief execu tive officer Khoo Boo Wooi said cultural festivals offered a powerful gateway to spark curiosity among young learners.
“Although Deepavali has passed, its spirit of light, knowledge and new beginnings continue to inspire us.
“Every festival carries unique traditions and values, and these moments provide meaningful opportunities to show children that science and creativity exist all around them,” said Khoo.
He said the centre’s activities were designed to help children discover scientific principles in everyday cultural practices.
“When students see STEM in the beauty of tradition, learning becomes more personal and exciting. Whether they are building a simple gadget or understanding the science behind colours and patterns, every activity encourages discovery,” he said.
Khoo added that nurturing early interest and confidence in STEM was key to developing Penang’s future talent pool, especially as the state expands its position in global high-tech industries.
He also thanked Flex for supporting the programme and helping make it more accessible to under-represented groups.
Deputy Chief Minister II and state science and technology committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo, who officiated the event, praised the concept of merging culture with science as “a powerful way to show that learning is everywhere.”
He said STEM education must not be viewed merely as a school subject, but as a foundation for the state’s future.
“Penang has always been, and will remain, a powerhouse of high-tech manufacturing and digital innovation.
“To sustain this momentum, we must invest heavily in our human capital,” he said.
“Exposing children to hands-on experiments and coding from a young age could shape the next generation of engineers, scientists and entrepreneurs, in line with the Penang2030 vision.”
He also lauded Flex for its ongoing commitment to CSR efforts.
“This sponsorship shows that successful industry leaders understand their obligation to the community.
“It reflects the kind of public- private collaboration we champion in Penang, where government, civil society and industry stand together to ensure no child is left behind,” said Jagdeep.
He reminded the students that industry support was a privilege, and encouraged them to stay curious and seize every opportunity to learn.
